Celebrating Trailblazers: The 2026 Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Awards

The cybersecurity industry is evolving rapidly, yet representation and diversity remain pressing challenges. To spotlight the remarkable achievements of women across this critical sector, nominations are now open for the 2026 Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Awards. Set against the iconic backdrop of London’s BT Tower on February 26th, 2026, this prestigious event aims to recognize women at all career stages who are shaping the future of cybersecurity.

The awards, hosted by Eskenzi PR and sponsored by Fidelity International, BT, Bridewell, and Plexal, mark their sixth annual celebration of female excellence in the field. By partnering with leading women-in-tech networks like WiCyS UK & Ireland and the Women in Tech and Cybersecurity Hub (WiTCH), the event promises to be more inclusive and intersectional than ever, reaching a global pool of extraordinary women.

A new initiative for 2026, supported by cybersecurity consultancy Bridewell, introduces a bursary for UK-based winners in the Ones to Watch category, covering travel and accommodation to attend the awards. This reflects a growing awareness of financial barriers that often limit early-career professionals from participating in industry events.

Despite the critical importance of cybersecurity, women still make up only about 22% of the global workforce in the sector, according to ISC2 research. With a surge in demand for skilled professionals and increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, fostering diversity has never been more urgent. Recognizing role models, offering mentorship, and creating visible pathways for advancement are essential to building a more inclusive industry. The Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Awards directly address these needs, celebrating established leaders and emerging talent alike.

Nominations will remain open until 5pm on January 9th, 2026, after which an esteemed panel of judges will select the Top 20 finalists. Profiles of these finalists will be featured on IT Security Guru, with five women awarded the title of Ones to Watch. The awards ceremony itself will include a welcome address, an informal panel discussion with Q&A sessions, and conclude with networking opportunities overlooking the London skyline. A live stream will also allow the public to join in virtually.

The founder, Yvonne Eskenzi, emphasizes the importance of meaningful action to champion diversity. She highlights how partnerships with organizations and women’s networks create a platform for celebrating, elevating, and empowering women while forging lasting industry connections. Fidelity International, BT, and Plexal reiterate this commitment, underscoring that diverse perspectives are crucial for strengthening cybersecurity resilience and innovation.

What Undercode Say:

The 2026 Most Inspiring Women in Cyber Awards represent more than an accolade—they are a strategic intervention in a sector grappling with underrepresentation. By fostering visibility and recognizing excellence, these awards help address structural inequities in cybersecurity.

The inclusion of international women-in-tech networks signals a deliberate attempt to extend beyond tokenistic representation. It encourages the cross-pollination of ideas, mentorship opportunities, and global perspectives, which are vital in a field where cyber threats transcend borders. Initiatives like Bridewell’s bursary address the practical barriers many early-career professionals face, reinforcing the principle that access and opportunity are as critical as recognition.

From a corporate perspective, sponsorship by firms like Fidelity International, BT, and Plexal reflects a growing understanding that diversity drives innovation. Companies are increasingly aware that teams with varied experiences and perspectives respond more effectively to emerging cybersecurity challenges. By investing in recognition programs, these organizations not only highlight their social responsibility but also contribute to building a more resilient workforce.

The focus on “Ones to Watch” is particularly noteworthy. It signals a shift toward proactive talent development rather than reactive acknowledgment. Highlighting emerging talent ensures a continuous pipeline of skilled professionals equipped to tackle tomorrow’s cybersecurity landscape. It also amplifies role models whose early recognition can inspire peers and younger generations to pursue careers in the field.

The format of the awards ceremony—combining professional recognition with networking and learning opportunities—strengthens community ties. Panel discussions and Q&A sessions create platforms for knowledge sharing, while the informal networking session reinforces the importance of human connections in an increasingly digital profession. The ability for the public to engage via live stream further democratizes access, expanding the event’s reach beyond geographical constraints.

In the context of global workforce challenges, the awards play a dual role: they are both a celebration and a catalyst for systemic change. By highlighting the intersection of talent, innovation, and inclusivity, the awards send a powerful message: cybersecurity excellence is not defined by gender, but inclusivity ensures that the sector reaches its full potential.

Fact Checker Results:

✅ Women currently comprise roughly 22% of the global cybersecurity workforce.
✅ The awards are hosted at BT Tower on February 26th, 2026.
❌ There is no evidence that nominations will extend beyond the stated January 9th deadline.

Prediction:

📊 The 2026 awards are likely to set a new standard for inclusivity in cybersecurity recognition programs. Expect increased media coverage, broader international participation, and a rising number of early-career women entering the cybersecurity field as a direct result of this initiative. Networking and mentorship opportunities from this event could accelerate career growth for emerging talent over the next 3–5 years.